With urgent reflections like “the house is on fire,” the conversation cut through speculation to focus on action, how to rebuild with intention, equity, and local leadership at the center. From calls for radical solidarity to the importance of language and partnership, the dialogue emphasized one thing: the future of development lies in community-driven, collaborative, and context-aware systems.

Among the leading voices was Jacqueline Asiimwe, CEO of CivSource Africa, who passionately called for a shift from individualism to collective strength. Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, "I am because we are", Jacqueline emphasized the power of local giving, community-led philanthropy, and re-centering African agency in development. Her insights reminded us that long before external aid, African communities had systems of resilience, generosity, and growth that sustained them, and those systems remain vital today.

Read more about the highlights HERE:

Watch full conversation HERE:

Last week, CivFund joined colleagues from the East Africa Financial Resilience Resource Hub ; Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) and Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) to reflect on the evolving funding landscape for civil society. With shrinking civic space and shifting donor priorities, we explored ways to strengthen financial resilience, foster collaboration, and build sustainable funding models. At the heart of our discussions was one key question: How do we ensure civil society remains strong, independent, and impactful? The journey continues, guided by Ubuntu, "I am because you are."

Read reflections from our CEO, Jacqueline Asiimwe, on the three-day retreat HERE: